Flowing Adventures: River Gear Essentials for Every Water Wanderer
We hope you love our recommendations! This website contains affiliate links. When you click on these links and make a purchase, we may earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. This commission helps to support and maintain the operations of this website.
There's an undeniable allure to the untamed beauty of rivers, beckoning adventurers to delve into their spirited currents. From the adrenaline rush of navigating rapids to the serenity of gliding along calm waters, river journeys offer a diverse tapestry of experiences for water enthusiasts. Whether you seek the thrill of challenging white-water rapids or the tranquility of a leisurely paddle, the river's allure promises an adventure that resonates deep within the soul. Let's embark on a captivating exploration of the gear that accompanies these aquatic escapades, ensuring you're equipped for the wonders and challenges the river has in store.
Personal river gear basics encompass essential equipment and items crucial for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience during river activities. These basics typically include:
Safety Gear:
Life jackets, helmets, and signaling devices to ensure personal safety during water adventures.
Helmet
Always wear a helmet while going through the big rapids.
Life Jacket
Wear your jacket at all times while in the raft.
Safety Whistle
Attach this to your life jacket for signaling.
NRS Pilot Knife
Clip this to your life jacket for emergencies.
Locking Carabiners
To attach your dry bags, water bottles and other gear to your raft. Do Not use those flimsy keychain carabiners to secure your gear.
Daisy Chains
I like to carry at least two carabiners and two daisy chains. Also doubles for hammock rigging.
Personal / Protective Equipment:
Equipment designed to keep gear dry and protect against the elements.
NRS Bill's Bag 110L Dry Bag
A Good Dry Bag Is a must have and a great place to start when it comes to necessary river gear. This bag will keep all of your clothes and gear dry incase of a flip. “Always Rig to flip!”
50 Cal Ammo Can
This metal waterproof box is the popular method to carry your personal items (camera, phone, sunscreen, snacks, lip balm, sunglasses, wallet, and other personals) on the river. It’s cheap, waterproof and practically indestructible if you flip. But, If you’re flying out to a commercial trip, you can bring a
Small Dry Bag
This one is 5 liter size for your personals instead of an ammo can.
Chaco Men's Zcloud Sandal
A super comfortable river sandal that you can hike a trail in. You need a good river sandal/shoe to wear in the raft at all times. If you get thrown from the raft you need protection for your feet.
Astral Water Shoes
If you prefer a closed toe situation and want to keep the small river rocks out from under your feet. Closed toe water shoes are also great if you need to jam your foot under a side tube for leverage.
ENO Hammock
I pack this hammock everywhere I go.
Hydro Flask Water Bottle
A 24 ounce insulated bottle that still fits into cupholders. The strong loop on the cap lets you clip your bottle to the boat. Pick your color.
Changing Poncho Towel
These are perfect for changing clothes anywhere with modesty and without fumbling around.
Sand-Free Outdoor Camping Mat
Having a sand free mat to put down your bags and stand on while you change clothes is priceless! Especially when you’re living in sand everyday. It’s a sweet relief to have a clean place to put your feet and your things down on. This one is 6’ x 6’ and rolls up small.
Communication:
Waterproof communication devices, radios, and cell phone protection for effective communication in case of emergencies.
Garmin InReach Mini II
Satellite Communication Device with SOS.
Compact Solar Charger
Charger for your phone and gadgets. This one unfolds to catch the sun. You can even clip it to your pack.
Emergency Preparedness Essentials:
First aid kits, rescue ropes, and survival tools for prompt responses to unforeseen circumstances during river journeys.
First Aid Kit
I always carry a first aid kit, this one is in it’s own dry bag.
Rescue Throw Rope
Standard NRS Rescue Throw rope.
Environmental Responsibility Measures:
Biodegradable soap, waste disposal strategies, and eco-friendly camping practices to ensure minimal impact on the river ecosystem and surroundings. Leave No Trace has great education on these principles.
Biodegradable Soap
All it takes is just a few drops! Since all you need is a few drops to get your washables squeaky clean, one bottle of Campsuds could last many months! Campsuds soap comes in a very convenient, portable, and lightweight bottle, which is the perfect accessory for camping, hiking, backpacking, travel, or even for use at home.
River Reads:
Down the Great Unknown: John Wesley Powell's 1869 Journey of Discovery and Tragedy Through the Grand Canyon
On May 24, 1869 a one-armed Civil War veteran, John Wesley Powell, and a ragtag band of nine mountain men embarked on the last great quest in the American West. The Grand Canyon, not explored before, was as mysterious as Atlantis - and as perilous. The 10 men set out from Green River Station, Wyoming Territory, down the Colorado in four wooden rowboats. Ninety-nine days later, six half-starved wretches came ashore near Callville, Arizona.
The Emerald Mile: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyon
From one of Outside magazine’s “Literary All-Stars” comes the thrilling true tale of the fastest boat ride ever, down the entire length of the Colorado River and through the Grand Canyon, during the legendary flood of 1983.
Gaining a thorough grasp of the fundamental essentials in personal river gear is crucial for individuals who have a deep passion for water activities. By incorporating and consistently applying these principles, enthusiasts not only ensure their safety but also promote an environmentally conscious approach to exploring the captivating wonders of rivers. Embracing these foundational elements establishes a responsible and sustainable connection with river ecosystems, contributing to the preservation and enjoyment of these natural treasures for both current and future generations.
Whether embarking on a white-water adventure, planning a serene float trip, or participating in any water-related pursuit, integrating these gear basics signifies a commitment to both personal safety and the preservation of our invaluable river environments.